July 14, 2020
The different types of drug charges
Drug charges can carry significant penalties and consequences for accused individuals. Anyone facing drug charges can expect to worry about the serious penalties and consequences of drug charges and, as a result, should be familiar with their criminal defense options.
Drug charges can stem from drug possession accusations, including possessing an illicit controlled substance such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin or methamphetamine. It can also be illegal to possess or distribute prescription drugs without a prescription which may also result in drug charges. Accused individuals can also face drug charges related to the alleged possession of drug paraphernalia. Drug paraphernalia can include pipes, bongs, syringes and rolling papers.
In addition to drug possession charges, another type of drug charge an accused individual may face can include drug manufacturing charges. Manufacturing prohibited drugs is illegal and may result in drug charges. Drug trafficking and distribution charges are the most serious type of drug charges accused individuals can face. In some circumstances, such as if the accused individual is allegedly in possession of cash, scales or baggies commonly associated with drug dealing, they may face drug trafficking or distribution charges.
Drug charges can result in incarceration and fines, as well as a criminal record. The penalties for drug charges can be harsh and can include stiff jail sentences. Because drug charges can have such a negative impact on the accused individual’s life, it is important for them to be familiar with criminal defense protections and the different criminal defense strategies available for defending against drug charges.
